Apple's Latest Mac mini: Do Good Things Come in Small Packages?Apple's Latest Mac mini: Do Good Things Come in Small Packages?

When one thinks of Apple’s computers, their versatile MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops and powerful iMac desktop models come to mind first. But for years, Apple has also sold its Mac mini computer that gives users Apple processing muscle in a tiny desktop footprint. The company recently unveiled its latest Mac mini, the M4 Mac mini, which teardown site iFixit got hold of and took it apart to see what this small package offers and gives up for its compact footprint.

According to the iFixit reviewer, Apple’s latest mini may look like a shrunken version of Mac’s Studio. But it manages to house Apple’s powerful M4 chip in a system enclosure measuring 5 x 5 in. square (a mini with the M4 Pro chip is also available). As the reviewer disassembled the unit loosening various tabs and screws, he noted the cooling fan which took up a fair amount of space inside the compact enclosure.

When it came to system memory, the modules were relatively easy to swap out; however, he noted the NAND modules are not the same physical configuration for various versions of the mini, somewhat complicating upgrading. The ports, unlike in other computers, were also relatively easy to swap out, without desoldering. But the Mini’s system RAM is integrated into the SoC and is not upgradeable.

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In spite of some system upgrade issues and difficult-to-access parts, the reviewer gave the M4 mini 7 out of 10 for repairability, which appears generous given the unit’s small footprint. You can view the video here.